As globalization and the technological epoch continue to imbue major lifestyle changes, the fixed trajectory of our standard of living is slowly being replaced by one that's more flexible and itinerant. In other words, our environment is becoming more customizable, adapting our wants and needs on a whim. Take for example Michael Jantzen's concept of a "modular space" for travelers, called the M-House, which allows us cosmopolitan nomads to move around with far more ease than pitching a tent or looking for hotels. Jantzen’s project provides different permutations of a livable house, a resort complex, an exhibit structure or any other combination of facilities, easily assembled and disassembled for people on the go.The 3D rendering of the M-House above shows how the parts all fit together. The concept of the M-House is based on Jantzen's relocatable M-Vironments systems, and consists of a series of rectangular panels that are attached with hinges to an open space frame grid of seven interlocking cubes. Some panels have insulation and windows in order to enclose indoor spaces; other non-insulated panels fold in or out, over and around open platforms to shade the sun, deflect the rain or block the wind. Other panels unfold from the face of the cubes to become places to sit, sleep, work or eat.
An M-House’s interior.All of the M-House’s components are interchangeable, and can be increased or decreased in size. The panels can be arranged in a curved configuration and from many different types of materials. The existing M-House panels are assembled with a steel structural frame that supports thin sheets of a concrete composite. All of the exposed surfaces of the structure are painted.The platforms and the cube frames are supported by adjustable legs, which are attached to load-bearing foot pads. In many cases, the support frames do not require a foundation, and they can be adjusted to accommodate terrain variations.This M-House was designed to function as a single private vacation retreat, or in multiple numbers and configurations, as a complete stand-alone high-tech resort complex. The house can be designed to be self-sufficient, powered by alternative energy sources such as the sun and the wind.The M-vironments were developed to accommodate a wide range of markets. With different sizes, shapes, materials and panel types, the systems can be used as exhibit structures, pavilions, play environments, retail spaces, office modules and many other commercial applications. The structure can be assembled or disassembled by a crew of four in one week.Only one M-House has been sold so far, though. It seems that even though the M-House suits our modular lifestyles, it isn't cheap. So for buyers who can't afford this house, Jantzen has also created the M-Velope, a smaller-scale modular gazebo, shown below.[via Laughing Squid]
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